Coughs and Sneezes Spread Diseases!

Help stop the spread of colds and flu this February! Cold and flu viruses are spread when you breathe in droplets that are coughed or sneezed out by an infected person. You can also catch a cold or flu by touching an infected object or surface and then touching your eyes and nose.

What can I do?

• Encourage your kids to cover their cough and sneezing into a tissue
• Throw it away as soon as possible!
• Encourage your kids to wash their hands often with warm water and soap
• Make sure your children get the flu vaccination if they are offered it at school or at the GP (Doctors) if they are in a high risk group (kids with asthma, diabetes or other health conditions – Ask if unsure!)

Usually you can usually manage the symptoms at home. You can see the Pharmacist first at your local chemist for advice. Symptoms include: sore throat, blocked or runny nose, cough, sneezes, high temperature and muscle aches. Only See the GP (Doctor) if your child’s symptoms are getting worse or they have a long term medical condition.

To help you and the kids get better more quickly you should:

• Make sure the kids get plenty of rest and sleep
• Keep warm – Make sure children wrap up well and have appropriate warm clothing in school- gloves, hat, scarf and a warm coat.
• Drink plenty of water (fruit juice or squash mixed with water is ok) encourage your children to drink more.

You can give children Ibuprofen or paracetamol if needed to help lower the temperature, you can get this from the pharmacist free of charge.

Need more advice?

Please contact the School Nurse’s (Jackie, Angela or Ronnie) for advice about this or any other health issue on 03000 0300 13. 

Alternatively, you can come along and see us at the confidential School Nurse parent drop in on Tuesday afternoons between 3pm - 3.45pm in the school library area.

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